Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Enjoy a well-earned break from the Indian heat with a trip on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a hill passenger railway that makes the journey from the steamy lowlands of India's east to the cool, tea plantations of the highlands. The trains first went into service in 1881 and retain most of their original features intact! The trip covers approximately 85 km (50 miles) and takes you on a windy path from roughly sea level up to 2,200 meters (7,218 ft) across gorgeous mountain terrain. It creeps along at a slow and steady pace under the power of an old-style steam locomotive that transports you back to a time when British officers would travel up to the hill station of Darjeeling for some R&R. It's a place that is simply breathtaking and will make you pass on your normal morning coffee for the local aromatic brew. Tea, of course!